10681729

Network Node, User Device and Methods Thereof

PublishedJune 9, 2020
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
17 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A network node for a wireless communication system, the network node comprising: a transceiver configured to receive a plurality of reference signals associated with a plurality of user devices; and a processor configured to: group the plurality of user devices into at least one group of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals; assign radio resources for grant-free data transmission to the group of user devices; and compute a receiver filter for the group of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals and the assigned radio resources, wherein the transceiver is further configured to receive a plurality of grant-free data transmissions from user devices in the group of user devices in the assigned radio resources, wherein the processor is further configured to separate the grant-free data transmissions from the user devices in the group of user devices based on the computed receiver filter, and wherein the processor is further configured to: estimate inter-arrival times for data packets in the plurality of received grant-free data transmissions from the user devices in the group of user devices; and re-compute the receiver filter for the group of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals and the estimated inter-arrival times.

Plain English Translation

A network node for wireless communication systems addresses the challenge of efficiently managing grant-free data transmissions from multiple user devices. The node includes a transceiver that receives reference signals from user devices and a processor that groups these devices based on the received signals. The processor assigns radio resources for grant-free transmissions to the grouped devices and computes a receiver filter tailored to the group, enabling the transceiver to receive and the processor to separate overlapping data transmissions from the devices in the group. The processor further estimates inter-arrival times of data packets from the group and dynamically recomputes the receiver filter using the reference signals and these estimated times. This adaptive filtering improves signal separation and resource utilization in scenarios where user devices transmit data without explicit scheduling requests, reducing latency and overhead in wireless networks. The system optimizes performance by dynamically adjusting to traffic patterns and signal characteristics.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The network node according to claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to determine a first control message for at least one user device of the group of user devices, wherein the first control message indicates the assigned radio resources, and wherein the transceiver is further configured to transmit the first control message to the user device.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving resource allocation and signaling efficiency in network nodes managing multiple user devices. The problem addressed is the need for efficient communication of assigned radio resources to user devices in a group, reducing signaling overhead while ensuring accurate resource allocation. The network node includes a processor and a transceiver. The processor is configured to assign radio resources to a group of user devices based on their communication requirements. For at least one user device in the group, the processor generates a first control message that specifies the assigned radio resources. The transceiver then transmits this control message to the user device. This approach ensures that each user device receives precise information about its allocated resources, optimizing network performance and reducing unnecessary signaling. The system may also include additional features, such as dynamic resource allocation adjustments based on real-time network conditions or user device feedback, to further enhance efficiency. The invention aims to streamline resource management in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios with high user device density or varying communication demands.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The network node according to claim 2 , wherein the processor is further configured to determine at least one Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) based on the plurality of received reference signals, and wherein the transceiver is further configured to transmit a second control message to the user device, wherein the second control message indicates the MCS to be used by the user device in the grant-free data transmission.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving grant-free data transmission efficiency in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the lack of dynamic adaptation in grant-free transmissions, where user devices send data without explicit scheduling, leading to suboptimal performance due to fixed modulation and coding schemes (MCS). The invention involves a network node, such as a base station, that receives multiple reference signals from a user device. These signals are used to assess channel conditions and determine an optimal MCS for the user device's upcoming grant-free transmission. The network node then transmits a control message to the user device, specifying the selected MCS. This allows the user device to adjust its transmission parameters dynamically, improving reliability and throughput without requiring explicit scheduling requests. The network node includes a transceiver for receiving the reference signals and transmitting the control message, and a processor for analyzing the signals and selecting the MCS. The processor may also handle additional tasks like managing multiple user devices and coordinating transmissions. The control message may include additional parameters beyond the MCS, such as timing or resource allocation details, to further optimize the transmission. This approach enhances grant-free transmission efficiency by adapting to real-time channel conditions, reducing packet loss, and improving spectral efficiency in wireless networks.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The network node according to claim 3 , wherein the second control message further indicates a MCS update instruction instructing the user device to update the MCS for the grant-free data transmission.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving grant-free data transmission efficiency by dynamically adjusting modulation and coding schemes (MCS). The problem addressed is the inefficiency in grant-free transmissions where user devices may use suboptimal MCS settings, leading to wasted resources or transmission failures. The solution involves a network node that sends a second control message to a user device, containing an MCS update instruction. This instruction directs the user device to modify its MCS for subsequent grant-free transmissions. The network node determines the optimal MCS based on factors such as channel conditions, device capabilities, or network load. The second control message may also include other parameters like time-frequency resources or power control commands. By dynamically adjusting MCS, the system improves spectral efficiency, reduces collisions, and enhances overall network performance. The invention applies to scenarios where user devices transmit data without explicit scheduling requests, such as in IoT or machine-type communications. The network node may be a base station or other infrastructure component managing grant-free resources. The MCS update instruction ensures adaptive and efficient use of available radio resources.

Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The network node according to claim 3 , wherein the second control message further indicates different MCSs to be used by the user device for different radio resources in the grant-free data transmission.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving grant-free data transmission efficiency by dynamically assigning modulation and coding schemes (MCSs) to user devices. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in grant-free transmissions where user devices may use suboptimal MCSs, leading to wasted resources or transmission failures. The solution involves a network node that transmits a control message to a user device, where the message includes a grant-free transmission resource allocation and specifies different MCSs for different radio resources within that allocation. The network node first determines available radio resources for grant-free transmission and then generates a control message indicating these resources and the corresponding MCSs. The user device receives this message and uses the assigned MCSs for its grant-free transmissions. This approach allows the network to adapt MCS assignments based on channel conditions or device capabilities, improving spectral efficiency and reducing transmission errors. The control message may also include timing information for the grant-free transmission. This technique is particularly useful in scenarios where multiple devices share the same resources, ensuring each device uses the most suitable MCS for its portion of the allocated resources.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The network node according to claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to: derive location information for the plurality of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals; and group the plurality of user devices based on the derived location information for the plurality of user devices.

Plain English Translation

A network node in a wireless communication system is configured to manage user devices by processing reference signals received from multiple user devices. The network node includes a processor that derives location information for each user device based on the received reference signals. The processor then groups the user devices into clusters based on their derived location information. This grouping allows the network node to optimize resource allocation, reduce interference, and improve overall network efficiency by dynamically adjusting communication parameters for different groups of user devices. The reference signals may include uplink signals, downlink signals, or other positioning signals used to estimate the geographic or spatial positions of the user devices. The grouping may be based on proximity, movement patterns, or other location-based criteria. This approach enhances network performance by enabling location-aware scheduling, beamforming, and interference management. The network node may further adjust transmission parameters, such as power levels or modulation schemes, for each group to improve signal quality and reduce energy consumption. The system is particularly useful in dense urban environments or high-mobility scenarios where dynamic grouping improves resource utilization and user experience.

Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. The network node according to claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to group at least one user device of the plurality of user devices into at least two different groups of user devices.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to network nodes in communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing multiple user devices connected to a network node. The network node includes a processor that groups at least one user device from a plurality of user devices into at least two different groups. This grouping is likely used to optimize network performance, resource allocation, or service delivery. The processor may apply criteria such as device type, traffic patterns, quality of service requirements, or geographic location to determine the grouping. By categorizing user devices into distinct groups, the network node can tailor communication strategies, prioritize traffic, or allocate resources more effectively. This approach helps improve network efficiency, reduce latency, and enhance overall user experience. The invention is particularly useful in scenarios where a network node serves a large number of diverse user devices, requiring dynamic and adaptive management to maintain optimal performance. The grouping mechanism may also support load balancing, interference mitigation, or energy-saving operations within the network.

Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The network node according to claim 1 , wherein the transceiver is further configured to receive a plurality of new reference signals associated with the plurality of user devices, and wherein the processor is further configured to re-compute the receiver filter for the group of user devices based on the plurality of received new reference signals.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving signal reception in network nodes serving multiple user devices. The problem addressed is the need to dynamically adapt receiver filters to changing channel conditions and user device configurations, ensuring efficient and accurate signal processing. The network node includes a transceiver and a processor. The transceiver receives reference signals from a group of user devices, which are used to compute an initial receiver filter. This filter is applied to process signals from the user devices, enhancing signal quality and reducing interference. The transceiver can also receive new reference signals from the user devices, which may be due to changes in channel conditions, device mobility, or other factors. The processor then re-computes the receiver filter based on these new reference signals, allowing the network node to continuously adapt to dynamic environments. This ensures optimal performance and reliable communication. The invention improves signal processing efficiency and adaptability in wireless networks, particularly in scenarios with multiple user devices and varying channel conditions.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The network node according to claim 1 , wherein the transceiver is further configured to receive a plurality of new reference signals associated with the plurality of user devices, and wherein the processor is further configured to re-group the plurality of user devices into at least one new group of user devices based on the plurality of received new reference signals.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving network node operations by dynamically regrouping user devices based on updated reference signals. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and adaptive grouping of user devices to optimize network performance, such as reducing interference and improving resource allocation. The network node includes a transceiver and a processor. The transceiver receives reference signals from multiple user devices, which the processor uses to initially group the devices into clusters based on signal characteristics. The transceiver is further configured to receive new reference signals from the same user devices, which may reflect changes in signal conditions, device mobility, or network load. The processor then re-evaluates these new signals and re-groups the devices into at least one new group. This dynamic regrouping ensures that the network node can adapt to real-time changes, maintaining optimal performance. The initial grouping may involve clustering devices with similar signal properties, such as channel conditions or interference levels, to facilitate coordinated multi-point (CoMP) transmission or other advanced techniques. The regrouping process allows the network node to continuously adjust groupings to reflect current network conditions, improving efficiency and reliability.

Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The network node according to claim 1 , wherein assigned radio resources for different groups of user devices are orthogonal to each other.

Plain English Translation

A network node manages radio resource allocation for multiple groups of user devices in a wireless communication system. The system addresses the challenge of interference and resource contention when multiple devices share the same communication channel. The network node assigns radio resources to different groups of user devices in a way that ensures the resources allocated to each group are orthogonal to those assigned to other groups. Orthogonality in this context means that the resources do not overlap in time, frequency, or code domains, preventing interference between the groups. This method improves spectral efficiency and reduces collisions, enhancing overall network performance. The network node may also dynamically adjust the resource allocation based on traffic conditions, device mobility, or quality of service requirements. The system supports various wireless standards, including 5G and beyond, where efficient resource management is critical for high-density deployments. The orthogonal resource assignment ensures reliable communication while maximizing throughput and minimizing latency.

Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. A user device for a wireless communication system, the user device comprising: a transceiver configured to: transmit at least one reference signal to a network node; receive a first control message from the network node, wherein the first control message indicates radio resources for grant-free data transmission; receive a second control message from the network node, wherein the second control message indicates at least one Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) associated with the indicated radio resources; and transmit data packets to the network node in the indicated radio resources for grant-free data transmission using the indicated MCS, wherein the second control message further indicates an MCS update instruction instructing the user device to update the MCS for the grant-free data transmission, and wherein the MCS update instruction instructing the user device to update the MCS is based on the network node computing a receiver filter based on an estimation of inter-arrival times of data packets sent to the network node.

Plain English Translation

A user device for wireless communication systems addresses the challenge of efficiently managing grant-free data transmissions, where data is sent without explicit scheduling requests to reduce latency. The device includes a transceiver that transmits reference signals to a network node, enabling the node to assess channel conditions. The network node sends a first control message specifying radio resources allocated for grant-free transmissions, followed by a second control message indicating a Modulation and Coding Scheme (MCS) for those resources. The device then transmits data packets using the assigned MCS and resources. The second control message also includes an MCS update instruction, which directs the device to adjust its MCS based on the network node's computation of a receiver filter. This filter is derived from an estimation of the inter-arrival times of data packets received by the network node, optimizing transmission efficiency and reliability. The system ensures dynamic adaptation of MCS to varying traffic patterns, improving performance in grant-free communication scenarios.

Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The user device according to claim 11 , wherein the transceiver is further configured to transmit data packets to the network node in the indicated radio resources using the updated MCS.

Plain English Translation

A system for wireless communication involves a user device and a network node, addressing the challenge of efficiently adapting to varying channel conditions to improve data transmission reliability and throughput. The user device includes a transceiver and a processor. The transceiver receives downlink control information from the network node, which indicates radio resources allocated for uplink transmission and specifies a modulation and coding scheme (MCS). The processor determines an updated MCS based on channel state information, which may include signal quality metrics or interference levels. The transceiver then transmits uplink data packets to the network node using the updated MCS in the allocated radio resources. This dynamic adjustment of the MCS allows the user device to optimize transmission parameters in real-time, enhancing communication performance under fluctuating channel conditions. The system may also include mechanisms for the network node to monitor and adjust resource allocation or MCS selection based on feedback from the user device, ensuring efficient use of network resources. The invention is applicable in wireless communication systems such as 5G, LTE, or other cellular networks where adaptive modulation and coding are critical for maintaining high data rates and low latency.

Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. The user device according to claim 11 , wherein the second control message further indicates different MCSs to be used by the user device for different radio resources in the grant-free data transmission, and wherein the transceiver is further configured to transmit data packets to the network node in the indicated radio resources using the MCSs for different radio resources.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving grant-free data transmission efficiency in cellular networks. The problem addressed is the inefficient use of radio resources when user devices transmit data without explicit scheduling, leading to suboptimal modulation and coding schemes (MCS) selection and potential resource conflicts. The invention describes a user device with a transceiver and a processor. The transceiver receives a first control message from a network node, allocating radio resources for grant-free uplink transmissions. The processor determines a second control message indicating different MCSs for different allocated radio resources. The transceiver then transmits data packets to the network node using the specified MCSs for each resource. This allows dynamic adaptation of transmission parameters based on channel conditions or traffic characteristics, improving spectral efficiency and reducing collisions. The system ensures that the user device can adjust its transmission parameters without requiring explicit scheduling for each transmission, balancing flexibility and resource utilization. The network node dynamically assigns MCSs to optimize performance across varying radio conditions, enhancing overall system throughput and reliability. This approach is particularly useful in scenarios with bursty or unpredictable traffic, such as IoT applications or machine-type communications.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. A method comprising: receiving a plurality of reference signals associated with a plurality of user devices; grouping the plurality of user devices into at least one group of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals; assigning radio resources for grant-free data transmission to the group of user devices; computing a receiver filter for the group of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals and the assigned radio resources; receiving a plurality of grant-free data transmissions from user devices in the group of user devices in the assigned radio resources; separating the grant-free data transmissions from the user devices in the group of user devices based on the computed receiver filter; estimating inter-arrival times for data packets in the plurality of received grant-free data transmissions from the user devices in the group of user devices; and re-computing the receiver filter for the group of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals and the estimated inter-arrival times.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for managing grant-free data transmissions from multiple user devices. The problem addressed is the efficient allocation and processing of grant-free transmissions, where user devices send data without explicit scheduling requests, leading to potential interference and resource contention. The method involves receiving reference signals from multiple user devices and grouping them based on these signals. The grouped devices are then assigned shared radio resources for grant-free transmissions. A receiver filter is computed for the group using the reference signals and assigned resources to enable separation of overlapping transmissions. The system receives grant-free data from the group, separates the transmissions using the filter, and estimates inter-arrival times of data packets. The receiver filter is then recomputed using the reference signals and estimated inter-arrival times to improve separation accuracy over time. This approach optimizes resource allocation and reduces interference by dynamically adapting the receiver filter based on transmission patterns, enhancing reliability and efficiency in grant-free communication scenarios. The method is particularly useful in scenarios with high device density or time-sensitive applications where low-latency transmissions are critical.

Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. A method comprising: transmitting at least one reference signal to a network node; receiving a first control message from the network node, wherein the first control message indicates radio resources for grant-free data transmission; receiving a second control message from the network node, wherein the second control message indicates at least one MCS associated with the indicated radio resources; and transmitting data packets to the network node in the indicated radio resources using the indicated MCS, wherein the second control message further indicates an MCS update instruction instructing the user device to update the MCS for the grant-free data transmission, and wherein the MCS update instruction instructing the user device to update the MCS is based on the network node computing a receiver filter based on an estimation of inter-arrival times of data packets sent to the network node.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving grant-free data transmission efficiency by dynamically adjusting modulation and coding schemes (MCS) based on packet arrival patterns. The problem addressed is the inefficiency in grant-free transmissions where fixed MCS settings may not adapt to varying channel conditions or traffic patterns, leading to suboptimal resource utilization and reliability. The method involves a user device transmitting reference signals to a network node, which then sends a first control message assigning radio resources for grant-free data transmission. A second control message specifies the MCS to be used for these resources. The user device transmits data packets using the assigned MCS. The second control message includes an MCS update instruction, which directs the user device to adjust the MCS based on the network node's computation of a receiver filter. This filter is derived from estimating the inter-arrival times of data packets received by the network node, allowing dynamic adaptation to traffic patterns. The method ensures efficient resource allocation and improved transmission reliability by aligning MCS settings with actual data transmission characteristics.

Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. A non-transitory computer readable medium with a program code for performing, when the computer program runs on a computer, a method comprising: receiving a plurality of reference signals associated with a plurality of user devices; grouping the plurality of user devices into at least one group of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals; assigning radio resources for grant-free data transmission to the group of user devices; computing a receiver filter for the group of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals and the assigned radio resources; receiving a plurality of grant-free data transmissions from user devices in the group of user devices in the assigned radio resources; separating the grant-free data transmissions from the user devices in the group of user devices based on the computed receiver filter; estimating inter-arrival times for data packets in the plurality of received grant-free data transmissions from the user devices in the group of user devices; and re-computing the receiver filter for the group of user devices based on the plurality of received reference signals and the estimated inter-arrival times.

Plain English Translation

The invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically improving grant-free data transmission efficiency in cellular networks. Grant-free transmission allows user devices to send data without first requesting permission, reducing latency but increasing interference. The invention addresses this by dynamically grouping user devices and optimizing receiver filters to separate overlapping transmissions. The system receives reference signals from multiple user devices and groups them based on signal characteristics. Radio resources are allocated to these groups for grant-free transmission. A receiver filter is computed using the reference signals and assigned resources to distinguish transmissions from different devices in the group. The system then processes grant-free data transmissions from the group, separating them using the filter. To further improve separation, the system estimates inter-arrival times of data packets from the received transmissions. The receiver filter is then recomputed using the reference signals and these estimated times, enhancing the ability to distinguish overlapping transmissions. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to adapt to changing transmission patterns, improving reliability and throughput in grant-free communication scenarios. The method is implemented via a computer program stored on a non-transitory medium.

Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. A non-transitory computer readable medium with a program code for performing, when the computer program runs on a computer, a method comprising: transmitting at least one reference signal to a network node; receiving a first control message from the network node, wherein the first control message indicates radio resources for grant-free data transmission; receiving a second control message from the network node, wherein the second control message indicates at least one MCS associated with the indicated radio resources; and transmitting data packets to the network node in the indicated radio resources using the indicated MCS, wherein the second control message further indicates an MCS update instruction instructing the user device to update the MCS for the grant-free data transmission, and wherein the MCS update instruction instructing the user device to update the MCS is based on the network node computing a receiver filter based on an estimation of inter-arrival times of data packets sent to the network node.

Plain English Translation

A system for optimizing grant-free data transmission in wireless networks addresses the challenge of efficiently managing radio resources and modulation and coding schemes (MCS) without explicit scheduling requests. The system involves a user device and a network node. The user device transmits reference signals to the network node, which responds with a first control message specifying radio resources allocated for grant-free data transmission. The network node then sends a second control message indicating at least one MCS associated with the allocated resources. The user device transmits data packets using the specified MCS and radio resources. The second control message includes an MCS update instruction, which directs the user device to adjust the MCS for future grant-free transmissions. This update is based on the network node's computation of a receiver filter, derived from estimating the inter-arrival times of data packets received from the user device. The system improves spectral efficiency and reduces latency by dynamically adapting the MCS to the traffic characteristics of the user device, ensuring optimal use of network resources.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

June 9, 2020

Inventors

Petteri KELA
Mario COSTA

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